Kyoto Hidden Gems Tour: Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya Village

Pick-up services available at Nipponbashi Exit 2 at 8:30AM or Kyoto Station at 9:50AM. At the designated meeting point in Osaka or Kyoto, you'll be greeted by your guide and driver. Hop in our vehicle for a journey to Amanohashidate and Ine Boathouses in Kyoto, where you'll immerse yourself in Japan's natural beauty and unique culture.

First, we'll venture to Amanohashidate, a special attraction known as one of Japan's Three Scenic Views, alongside Matsushima in Mutsu and Miyajima in Aki. Stretching approximately 3.6 kilometers along the Japan Sea and Amanohashidate Bay, it's a sandbar formed by coastal sedimentation, adorned with around 8,000 pine trees. To the east and west are white sandy beaches, creating a truly unique natural landscape. Its shape resembles a bridge reaching towards the sky, hence its name Amanohashidate. Positioned at the confluence of the Ashu Sea and Amanohashidate Bay, it offers not only pure natural beauty but also vast ocean views of the islands.

Atop Mt. Monju, you'll find an observation deck to behold Amanohashidate. The mountain features a sightseeing car and attractions for all ages. The view of Amanohashidate from here appears like a dragon soaring into the sky, earning it the name 'View of the Flying Dragon.' You'll experience a dynamic perspective of Amanohashidate here. (Cable car tickets are not included: Amanohashidate Viewland cable car/single-track tram pass: 850 JPY.)

Chionji Temple, also known as Bussharado (a temple for academic success). The temple's gate is the largest in the Tango region. Observe the unique fan-shaped omikuji (fortune-telling paper). When hung upside down, the width of the fan varies, symbolizing gradual improvement.

You can also enjoy a soak in the Amanohashidate Hot Springs at Awata no Yu. The natural spring waters are said to be great for your skin. If you're interested, give it a try. The outdoor foot bath is free.

Finally, we'll journey to Ine Boathouses, one of Kyoto's hidden gems. Ine is a small village renowned for its traditional boat-house architecture. You can choose to explore on foot, by bicycle, or even feed seagulls by boat, all while appreciating the coastal scenery and unique architectural style. Boat ride expenses are to be covered separately.

You have the option to explore the village by bicycle for free. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour of Ine Bay at your own expense, where you can feed the seagulls while out on the sea.